The thyroid is a gland at the base of the throat that produces hormones to regulate the body’s functions. There are four major types of thyroid cancer, each named after how the cancer cells look. Thyroid cancer affects about 2% of the population, but the symptoms and treatment are different for each type.
The most common type of thyroid cancer is follicular cancer. It develops in cells of the thyroid gland that make the thyroid hormone and is typically found in older adults. A rarer type of follicular cancer is known as hurthle cell cancer. Anaplastic cancer is another form of thyroid cancer and starts in the follicle cells of the thyroid gland. Despite this difference in type, both types of thyroid cancer are deadly.
Physical examinations are important for thyroid cancer survivors. The first two years after treatment are typically followed by periodic physical exams. If you continue to experience symptoms, periodic testing for TSH, T4, T3, and Thyroglobulin hormone levels may be necessary. Afterwards, you may need to visit a specialist to determine whether you need to take any additional treatment. A specialist will assess your condition and recommend a course of treatment based on the results of your tests.
Some studies have found a link between body mass index and the risk of developing thyroid cancer. The risk of thyroid cancer in heavier people is higher than that for non-overweight people. Research has shown that people with higher BMI have higher risk of developing thyroid cancer. Additionally, people with low levels of iodine are more likely to develop thyroid cancer. Acromegaly, a rare condition wherein the body produces too much of the growth hormone, may also increase the risk. People with systemic lupus erythematosus have increased risk of developing thyroid cancer.
There are three types of thyroid cancer: papillary cancer, follicular carcinoma, and anaplastic carcinoma. While papillary cancer accounts for about 2% of thyroid cancers, anaplastic carcinoma is considered a subtype of thyroid cancer. In contrast, anaplastic carcinoma is different from thyroid cells and can spread to other parts of the body. Similarly, less than 4% of thyroid cancer is made up of sarcomas and lymphomas.
Surgical removal of the entire thyroid gland can result in a partial or complete lack of functioning thyroid gland. Some MTC patients have additional thyroid surgery, or a partial or complete removal of the gland. Occasionally, some of this thyroid remains in the body after surgery. This is considered a recurrence of thyroid cancer. The remaining portion of the thyroid may need to be removed in another surgery. If left untreated, this portion of the thyroid may recur.
Radioactive iodine is another treatment option for thyroid cancer. This radioactive iodine works by taking advantage of its preferential uptake in thyroid tissue. This radiation therapy helps treat microscopic or residual thyroid cancer with minimal effects on other organs. During the treatment, the patient takes an oral pill containing radioactive iodine. For several days, the patient must be isolated from other people. Five days after the treatment, the patient undergoes an imaging scan to determine if the tumor has progressed.
